The annual Orangutan SSP Husbandry Workshop brings together keepers, managers, field biologists, veterinarians, conservationists and experts from all over the world. The workshop covers a variety of topics pertaining to both captive and wild populations including husbandry, enrichment, training, habitat loss (palm oil, logging, etc.), field work, veterinary care, and other emergent issues through a variety of presentations, posters and panel discussions. The workshop is held in conjunction with the Orangutan SSP master plan meetings (closed).

What people are saying about the Orangutan SSP Husbandry Workshops...

"I wanted to immerse myself in orangutan information. It was immensely interesting, and everyone was willing to answer any question I asked. It was an "A" list experience!!! Meeting Lone Drocher Nielsen was fascinating!!!"

"Presentations. addressed topics that I have not personally encountered yet which helps me be better prepared for possible future situations"

"The conservation presentations are what really hit me hard. We get so wrapped up in our daily routines that we forget what it is really going on out there where our animals come from."

"The structure of how everything flowed was wonderful. Hearing the keynote speaker was amazing!"

"Really good workshop, I think that the Orangutan SSP does a fine job, very helpful to all institutions managing these wonderful animals. Thank You!"

"The presentations on husbandry were detail oriented and useful for bringing ideas back to our institution."

"This workshop is a highlight of my year, I absolutely love this group and being able to attend and learn every year!!!"

Orangutan SSP Husbandry Workshop Advisory CommitteeIn 2012 the Orangutan SSP steering committee voted to create the Orangutan SSP Husbandry Workshop Advisory Committee. Some of the activities the advisory committee undertakes are searching for future workshop locations, assisting the host facility as needed to make the workshops a success, assisting with the search for silent auction items and keynote speakers, working on long term initiatives for the workshops and developing a long term strategic plan for future workshops.

The advisory committee is made up of five individuals who have all volunteered their time to help the SSP. The chair of the committee is selected by the steering committee. The committee also has two additional members who serve on the committee permanently. The final two spots are made up of an additional volunteer and a future workshop host facility coordinator.

Orangutan SSP Husbandry Workshop ManualThis document was prepared to assist in the preparation of professional and consistent Orangutan SSP Husbandry Workshops from year to year. It is not meant to be all inclusive. We are constantly revising this information based on input from the hosts, the Orangutan SSP husbandry workshop advisory committee and the Orangutan SSP steering committee. The manual can be found in the Members Only section.

Each conference is unique, which is what often helps make them fun, informative and successful. Use your own ideas and creativity to enhance what is found in this document and remember you can make the workshop as budget friendly as you wish. The workshops have varied widely in cost.